The Los Angeles Lakers are eyeing Myles Turner to bolster their frontcourt, but securing him could come at a steep cost. According to Mark Gilbert of The Athletic, the Indiana Pacers are interested in a trade involving Turner, but they are insisting that Austin Reaves be included in the deal.
“The Lakers have returned looking to acquire Myles Turner. Iâm hearing trade negotiations have resumed however, Indiana in particular is being very firm with wanting Austin Reaves in the deal, claiming they will offer more than just Turner if the Pacers can land Austin.”
While Anthony Davis was the standout player for the Lakers, with 25.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, his recent trade to the Mavericks leaves the Lakers with limited depth at center. During a press conference, GM Rob Pelinka confirmed that the team is actively seeking frontcourt help, though he noted it could take time, given the limited assets available and a “dry” market for big men.
At 28 years old, Turner is widely regarded as one of the top options for the Lakers. The 9-year veteran is averaging 15.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, shooting 48.0% from the field. Heâs also been a defensive anchor for a Pacers team ranked 4th in the East at 28-20.
With just one year left on his contract at $19.9 million, Turner is set to become an unrestricted free agent, likely commanding a lucrative deal this summer. The Lakers could wait until then to pursue him, or they might opt to trade for him now by parting with Reaves.
While Turner has yet to make an All-Star team, his defensive abilities and size make him a potentially transformative addition to the Lakers, especially under Luka Doncicâs leadership. The question, however, is whether the Lakers are willing to part with Austin Reaves, a rising star who has become a crucial part of their roster. At 26 years old, Reaves is viewed as a key building block for the Lakersâ future, particularly with LeBron James aging and Davis now a Maverick.
However, if the Lakers can swap Reaves for a proven player like Turner, they will likely seize the opportunity. With the addition of Doncic, the Lakers’ window has shifted, and they need players who fit the new timeline. If they can pull off this trade, Turner could be the perfect solution to their frontcourt issuesâprovided theyâre willing to pay the price.
With the trade deadline looming, the Lakers are running out of time, but Pelinka remains open to moves that could strengthen the team around Doncic and LeBron James.
